Forensic Engineering Analysis Of Failed Roller Bearings

Abstract

Failure Of Rolling Element Bearings Often Results In Damage To The Bearing Elements And Adjacent Components Such As Axles, Shafts, Gearboxes, Wheels, Etc. Forensic Analysis Of Rolling Contact Bearings Is Discussed In This Paper. A Review Of Bearing Types And Typical Operating Characteristics Is Presented. A Procedure For Systematic Examination And Analysis Of Bearing Failure Evidence Is Suggested, And Several Case Studies Are Presented Which Demonstrate The Types Of Evidence Typically Remaining And The Logic Which Leads To Engineering Conclusions Concerning The Cause Of Bearing Failures.